Ugh, music lovers! We’ve all been there, right? You’ve bought them a present, wrapped it up nicely, and on the day it’s received with that polite smile that screams, “Great! Another dust collector for the back of the drawer.”
If you’re not as tuned into their world of gadgets, gizmos, and tech, choosing something thoughtful as well as useful can feel genuinely challenging. We’ll help you avoid that this year with our list of the best gifts for music lovers – from headphones and turntables to accessories and system tweaks. Whatever the setup, there’s a gift here to fit their taste and your budget.
In a hurry?
Here are our top picks for gifts this year:
JBl Flip 6 Portable Bluetooth Speaker | Best budget portable speaker: compact, versatile, waterproof, and dustproof (IP67). | Check the current price |
WiiM Mini Multi-Room Music Streamer | Best gift for adding smart features to a system, featuring Hi-Res streaming, AirPlay, and voice control. | Check the current price |
AudioQuest DragonFly Black USB DAC | Compact Hi-Res DAC—Perfect gift to enhance mobile and PC audio. | Check the current price |
FiiO CP13 Portable Cassette Player | Ideal gift for tape lovers: portable with 13-hour battery and 3.5mm output. | Check the current price |
Audio Technica AT-LPW50BTRW and Klipsch KD-400 Wireless Hi-Fi Bundle | Wireless turntable system: Bluetooth-ready, with RCA and optical for extra connectivity. | Check the current price |
The best gifts for music lovers
1. JBL Flip 6 Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Best all-rounder for portable music
- Bluetooth 5.1 and JBL PartyBoost
- Three-band EQ in JBL Portable App
- 12-hour battery life and IP67 water and dust proofing
Portable speakers come in handy for loads of situations when you’re not near your main setup, and the JBL Flip 6 is a total favourite.
It’s a compact, standalone Bluetooth 5.1 speaker with 12 hours of battery and an IP67 rating, so it’s waterproof and dustproof – ideal for any setting.
With a palette of colours available and app-controlled sound settings, it’s easy to match your music lover’s style and audio tastes.
Check out our full JBL Flip 6 review here if you want to learn more!
2. WiiM Mini Multiroom Music Streamer – Best add-on for smart features
- Upgrade hi-fi with multiroom and smart features
- Studio-quality Hi-Res audio up to 24-bit/192 kHz
- AirPlay 2, Alexa and Siri, and Spotify, Tidal, and more
If your music lover has been complaining about their setup getting old, the WiiM Mini Music Streamer is an easy way to revitalise it without spending on a complete overhaul. This compact add-on supports high-resolution streaming via the WiiM Home App and popular platforms including Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music.
With AirPlay 2, Bluetooth 5.0, and Alexa or Siri voice control, it painlessly modernises non-smart systems.
Pair with a second Mini – or a WiiM Amp or Streamer – for multiroom audio without complex wiring.
3. AudioQuest DragonFly Black USB DAC – Best upgrade for mobile sound quality
- Multi-award-winning sound quality boost
- PC, laptop, iOS, and Android compatible
- ESS9010 DAC, supporting 24-bit/96kHz
Laptops and smartphones juggle so many functions that high-fidelity audio usually isn’t their strong suit.
Offloading digital-to-analogue conversion to an AudioQuest DragonFly Black achieves significantly clearer audio. It elevates everyday listening to audiophile quality and is plug-and-play compatible with a range of devices.
Take a look at the DragonFly Red or the flagship DragonFly Cobalt for even greater performance. We’ve put together a quick guide explaining what DACs do and why they’re worth the upgrade – well worth reading if you’re not sure!
4. FiiO CP13 Cassette Player – Best portable tape player
- Portable tape player
- 13-hour battery
- For 3.5mm headphones
Cassette players nowadays tend to be purely pragmatic, ’80s-inspired, or literally out of the ’80s. The FiiO CP13, however, is a fresh take on tape. With a 13-hour battery life and a 3.5mm headphone port, this is a great gift if you’ve noticed a box of old tapes ready to be rediscovered in your music lover’s home. For a deeper insight, read our CP13 review.
5. Audio Technica AT-LPW50BTRW & Klipsch KD-400 Wireless Hi-Fi Bundle – Best stereo hi-fi bundle
- Speakers and turntable, connectable via Bluetooth
- KD-400 features RCA and optical inputs for 2 more sources
- Everything included—no need for extra shopping
For someone eager to get into vinyl, the Audio Technica AT-LPW50BTRW and Klipsch KD-400 Wireless Hi-Fi Bundle is a great way to skip the entry-level gear. This all-in-one setup includes the AT-LPW50BTRW Bluetooth Turntable and KD-400 Powered Bookshelf Speakers, ready-to-go straight from the box.
The turntable delivers high-fidelity sound with wireless convenience, paired with Klipsch’s famously bold and clear tonal signature.
Featuring flexible connectivity options, these speakers can be connected to multiple entertainment sources, like TV or CD players.
6. Kitsound Diggit 55 Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Best speaker for garden
- Detachable ground stake and 360-degree sound
- Up to 15 hours battery life and an LED ambient light
- Rain- and dust-resistant IP66 design
Get something for summer with the Kitsound Diggit 55 Bluetooth Speaker – a budget-friendly alternative to pricey outdoor sound installations.
This portable speaker comes with a detachable stake, letting you set up anywhere with soft ground – from beach days and BBQs to campfires and flowerbeds.
The Diggit 55 is dust-tight and water-resistant (IP66) for uninterrupted music rain or shine and the LED ring light casts a soft, ambient glow.
It’s perfect for setting the vibe at evening events.
7. Qobuz subscription – Best introduction to Hi-Res audio streaming
- Access over 100 million tracks in high-resolution
- Download tracks for offline playback
- Supported by a variety of devices
All this time we’ve been suggesting gifts you can buy for someone else, but maybe it’s time to treat yourself.
We’ve partnered up with Qobuz to offer a true audiophile streaming experience. With over 100 million tracks in Hi-Res and CD lossless quality, Qobuz lets you hear new levels of depth, nuance, and immersion that standard, lossy streaming can’t deliver.
You’ll also find curated playlists, in-depth editorial content, and the option to download tracks for offline listening – a great way to make the most of your Hi-Res audio gear.
8. AudioQuest Conductive Carbon Fibre Record Cleaning Brush – Best vinyl care accessory
- A simple gift or stocking stuffer for vinyl lovers
- 1,248,000 super-conductive carbon fibre bristles
- Removes crackle-causing dust and dirt
When shopping for an audiophile, remember that the perfect gift doesn’t have to be electronic. Sometimes, the most thoughtful presents are those that help maintain a prized music collection.
Take the AudioQuest Carbon Fibre Record Cleaning Brush. It’s one of our most popular products among vinyl lovers.
With gold contacts to help prevent introducing static into your system and over a million conductive carbon fibre bristles, this brush reaches deep into record grooves to clear out dust and debris, helping to lessen crackles and preserve sound quality.
9. Samsung Music Frame HW-LS60D Smart Speaker – Best hidden speaker solution
- Styled like an album frame
- Dolby Atmos audio with Samsung TV integration via Q-Symphony
- Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
Is your music lover complaining their speakers take up too much space?
The Samsung Music Frame HW-LS60D Smart Speaker is a brilliant solution, creating “hidden” sound without in-wall or ceiling installation.
Styled like a 12″ album frame, it can be wall-mounted or stand freely, blending seamlessly into any space.
Equipped with Q-Symphony for easy Samsung TV pairing, Dolby Atmos for 3D sound, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, the Music Frame is a stylish, discreet way to upgrade any room’s audio.
10. AVCOM Hi-Fi Rack Cabinet – Best budget hi-fi furniture
- Four tempered glass shelves, in black or white
- Vibration-reducing isolation pads
- Cable management and ventilation
A quality rack can be a game-changer for any audiophile setup. The AVCOM Hi-Fi Rack Cabinet features four levels of tempered glass and a steel frame, offering ample space for amps, turntables, CD players, and more.
Designed with insulation pads to reduce vibration and a perforated back panel with convenient cable cut-outs, it ensures good airflow to keep your equipment safe, organised, and running smoothly.
This is an eye-catching focal point for dedicated hi-fi rooms.
11. Audio Technica AT-LP60XBK Automatic Belt Drive Turntable – Best beginner turntable
- Automatic tonearm placement
- Built-in phono preamp to connect amp or powered speakers
- 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speeds for 12” albums and 7” singles
If someone’s been hinting at getting into vinyl, the Audio Technica AT-LP60XBK is the perfect place to start.
This fully automatic turntable makes listening easy: press a button, and the needle gently lowers onto the record, then lifts when it’s done – no manual handling needed.
And it plays both 33 1/2 and 45 RPM, so they can enjoy a range of records.
For added flexibility, Bluetooth and USB models are also available for wireless and digital listening.
12. AVCOM Complete Turntable Maintenance Kit – Best kit for setup and maintenance
- Comprehensive turntable toolbox
- Cartridge alignment, pressure gauge, and spirit levels
- Durable aluminium case
The AVCOM Complete Turntable Maintenance Kit is a brilliant catch-all gift for vinyl enthusiasts who love fine-tuning their record player. This budget-friendly bundle comes with all the essentials, including a cartridge alignment tool, a record cleaning brush, an electronic stylus pressure gauge, and spirit levels for accurate setup.
It also includes VTA and azimuth tools, a 7” record adapter, cartridge wires, screws, pliers, and a screwdriver – all neatly packed in an aluminium case for easy storage.
Regardless of their system, they’ll find something useful here.
13. JBL Tune Flex True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds – Best everyday-use earbuds
- Takes the edge off background noise
- JBL’s signature bass-forward sound
- Rain and sweat-resistant, IPX4-rated
The JBL Tune Flex True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds are a budget-friendly gift for music lovers who enjoy fuss-free wireless listening.
With JBL’s Pure Bass Sound, these earbuds achieve a bit of extra bass for a fuller sound than the competition.
Active Noise Cancelling helps reduce background noise for office or everyday use, while IPX4 water resistance ensures they’re protected from rain and sweat.
Totalling 32 hours of battery life with the charging case, they have more than enough juice for a day out.
14. Ruark Audio R1S Smart Radio – Best for radio and streaming
- Ruark’s NS+ driver and Class A-B amplifier
- Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, plus FM, DAB+, and internet radio
- Compatible with Ruark BackPack 3 Battery
Radio is still one of the best ways to discover and enjoy music, and the Ruark Audio R1S Smart Radio makes it even better.
Recently crowned What Hi-Fi’s Best Radio in the £100-£400 category, it offers sound quality that’s impressive for its compact size, thanks to a Class A-B amplifier and Ruark’s NS+ driver.
With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, you can stream music via Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Amazon Music. It also offers FM, DAB+, and internet radio.
Add the Ruark BackPack 3 (sold separately) for true portability.
15. Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 Bookshelf Speakers – Best entry-level passive speakers
- A popular choice for entry-level hi-fi
- 5-inch Kevlar driver and dual front-firing bass ports
- Bi-wirable, gold-plated terminals
The Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 Bookshelf Speakers are a classic and still reign as one of our most popular speakers.
They’re easy to set up and easy to run, making them perfect for budget-friendly sound systems or anyone exploring hi-fi audio for the first time.
With five-inch Kevlar bass drivers, textile tweeters, and front bass ports, these speakers deliver impressive sound quality typically found only in pricier models.
To find out what makes these speakers special, check out our full Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 review.
16. JBL Authentics 300 Portable Smart Speaker – Best retro-modern speaker
- Modern tech with a vintage aesthetic
- The range’s only portable model; 8-hour battery life
- AirPlay, Chromecast, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Spotify Connect
Are you looking for a present for someone who loves retro-chic? Finding a smart speaker that fits that aesthetic can be tricky, as most lean towards minimalist, modern designs.
The JBL Authentics 300 breaks that mould, blending vintage ’70s style with the latest music tech.
With Wi-Fi streaming through AirPlay, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect, plus dual voice assistants and eight hours of battery life, this speaker offers both classic style and modern convenience.
If you don’t need portability, the flagship Authentics 500 drops the battery for Dolby Atmos spatial audio.
17. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e Wireless Headphones – Best high-end wireless headphones
- Advanced active noise cancellation
- 30-hour battery life and a 15-minute charge for extra 7 hours
- Lightweight materials and memory foam ear cushions
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e Wireless Headphones are an investment worth making for those who value exceptional sound. Drawing on technology from the flagship Px8, the Px7 S2e offer an “evolved” acoustic performance that creates an immersive listening experience with impressive clarity and depth.
Active noise cancellation, high-resolution 24-bit DSP, and 30-hour battery life make them perfect for all-day listening. Premium materials and meticulous design ensure they’re as comfortable as they are luxurious.
For a detailed breakdown, read our Bowers & Wilkins range explanation here.
18. AVCOM Deluxe Headphone Stand – Best budget-friendly headphone accessory
- Smooth, wooden curve
- Supports a wide range of headphone sizes
- Keeps your listening space organised
Have you recently noticed your music lover’s got a new pair of headphones? Don’t let them just dump them on their desk – give them somewhere to display them.
The AVCOM Deluxe Headphone Stand is a practical gift that keeps their headphones secure and looking sharp.
Made from high-quality real wood, its curved design fits almost any headphone model and adds a touch of class to any desk. No assembly, just place it and enjoy!
19. IsoAcoustics Aperta 155 Stands – Best isolation stands for speakers or monitors
- Designed by anti-resonance experts
- Tilt for better imaging
- Suitable for speakers up to 18kg
Our next pick is a bit more niche, but if your music lover has speakers or studio monitors sitting flat on their desk, the IsoAcoustics Aperta 155 Stands is a game-changer.
These isolation stands are designed to reduce resonance, enhancing clarity and imaging by eliminating sound smear.
With adjustable tilt for precise angling, they let speakers project sound at a better angle, creating a more immersive and natural listening experience.
The Aperta 200 is also available for larger speakers.
20. Tacima CS947 6-Way Main Conditioner – Best way to reduce mains interference
- Reduces radio frequency and electrical interference
- Surge protection, keeping your hi-fi and AV gear safe
- Features 6 outlets for conditioning for multiple products
If you’re looking for something a little unconventional, the Tacima CS947 6-Way Mains Conditioner is a hidden gem for boosting audio quality.
This high-quality extension cable is designed to cut out radio interference and shield against electrical surges, which helps reveal more detail, punch, and clarity in music.
Add this to your music lover’s setup, and let them hear the difference – it’s a unique, slightly geeky gift that brings a real upgrade to an entry and mid-level system.
21. JBL PartyBox Bluetooth Party Speakers – Best all-in-one party speakers
- Built-in light effects
- Club 120 and up features guitar and mic inputs
- Easy to move and place
The JBL PartyBox range has a speaker for every occasion. Each model comes with built-in light shows and microphone connections for karaoke, while the larger models also add guitar inputs.
The PartyBox Encore is compact and portable, while the Club 120 brings extra volume.
The suitcase-style Stage 320 adds even more power with three-way drivers and wheels for easy transport.
Going larger, for deep, punchy bass, the PartyBox 710 offers an impressive 800W output, and the Ultimate tops the range with Dolby Atmos, perfect for large-scale parties.
22. Chord Electronics Mojo 2 DAC and Headphone Amplifier – Best portable audio enhancement
- Supports up to 32-bit/768kHz playback
- Advanced digital signal processing with four-band EQ
- Small, durable design with an 8-hour battery
The Chord Mojo 2 is the go-to for portable, high-fidelity audio.
Since the debut of the original Mojo 1 in 2015, it’s set a benchmark for affordable, audiophile-grade sound, backed by lossless four-band EQ and crossfeed for immersive listening.
With USB-C and coaxial inputs, it’s the perfect way to unleash audio quality on phones or laptops. Its durable design and eight-hour battery also make it easily portable.
Want to know more? We spent a week with Mojo 2 – here’s our review of the portable DAC and headphone amplifier.
23. Fisual Adhesive Cable Ties – Best little gift
- Reusable Velcro and adhesive-backed
- Holds 5 to 8 cables
- 10-pack, available in black or white
Sure, it’s not the most glamorous gift, but the Fisual Adhesive Cable Ties are incredibly useful if your music lover is dealing with cable chaos.
This pack of 10 adhesive-backed, reusable Velcro ties keeps cables organised, with each tie holding five to eight cables in place.
Separating audio cables from sources of interference, like power cables, can also reduce noise and improve clarity.
Available in black or white, these are a great, low-cost way to pad out a gift bundle with something genuinely useful.
24. Sennheiser HD 560S Open-Back Headphones – Best budget-friendly headphones
- Open-back headphones
- Soft ear pads and a lightweight frame
- Extended bass response
If you’re looking for a gift that fuels someone’s passion for hi-fi audio or home studio projects, the Sennheiser HD 560S Headphones aren’t a bad place to start.
With an open-back design for spacious sound, these headphones offer extended bass response and well-balanced mids and highs, achieving surprisingly detailed sound quality for their price point.
A solid all-rounder for home use, they offer great performance without the high price tag.
25. iFi Audio Hip-DAC 3 Portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier – Best value-for-money audio enhancement
- Up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 playback
- CPowerMatch and XBass customisation
- 12-hour battery
If high-end portable DACs are out of reach, the iFi Hip-DAC 3 is a feature-rich, more affordable alternative.
Offering exceptional value for money, this compact DAC supports Hi-Res audio up to 32-bit/384kHz.
With PowerMatch for easy gain control, XBass for extra depth, and 12 hours of battery life, it’s great for pocket-sized or desktop listening.
26. ELAC DCB41 ConneX Active Bookshelf Speakers – Best plug-and-play speakers
- Built-in 50W amplifier
- HDMI ARC, USB, optical, and aptX Bluetooth
- Phono input to connect turntable
Buying speakers as a gift can be tricky, especially if you need an amplifier to match.
So why not choose a pair of high-quality, all-in-one active speakers? The ELAC DCB41 ConneX Active Bookshelf Speakers have a built-in 50W Class D amplifier, meaning no extra equipment or cables are required – just set up and play.
With HDMI ARC, optical, USB, and aptX Bluetooth, they’re perfect for both music and TV audio and have received incredibly high praise from the hi-fi community for their exceptional value for money compared to a full setup.
27. Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones – Best noise-cancelling headphones
- 3 ANC modes (Silent, Soft, Transparent)
- USB DAC mode that supports 24-bit/192kHz
- 30-hour battery life
As Focal’s first venture into wireless ANC, the Focal Bathys Headphones made a fantastic first impression.
Backed by renowned acoustic design – including 40mm aluminium-magnesium drivers – with Bluetooth 5.1 for a reliable wireless connection, these headphones are perfect for flights, commutes, travel, or everyday listening without distractions.
They come with a premium price tag, but the quality is worth it with three ANC modes, 30-hour battery life, and a built-in USB DAC for 24-bit/192kHz support.
28. JBL Clip 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Best small-scale Bluetooth speaker
- Integrated carabiner
- waterproof and dustproof (IP67)
- 10-hour battery
Who doesn’t love a fun, fuss-free portable speaker?
Perfect for a quick boost to phone sound quality, the JBL Clip 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is compact and low-cost.
With Bluetooth 5.1 and an integrated carabiner, it can be clipped just about anywhere – bags, bikes, belts.
Hang it in the kitchen or bedroom, whether that’s from a cupboard handle or headboard rail. It’s IP67-rated for dust and water resistance and features a 10-hour battery life.
29. AVCOM Record Sleeves – Best way to preserve a record collection
- Transparent sleeves
- 7” single, 12” album, and inner sleeves
- Keeps vinyl clean
Sometimes the best presents are the simplest.
If you’re buying for a vinyl lover, show them you’re thinking about the well-being of their collection. A pack of AVCOM Record Sleeves – whether for 12” albums, 7” singles, or inner sleeves – helps keep their records safe from dust and general wear.
These sleeves protect album covers while allowing easy browsing for favourites.
FAQs
What do audiophiles want?
Audiophiles want to fine-tune their setup, so accessories make great gifts. Skip major electronics upgrades – they likely have plans for that! Instead, consider essentials like record cleaning kits, cable organisers, or additions to their music collection with CDs, vinyl, or a streaming subscription.
Is a playlist a good gift?
A playlist is a deeply personal and meaningful gift. It shows how well you understand someone’s tastes, creating a completely unique experience. Each song can spark a memory, transforming a playlist into a treasured keepsake made just for them.
How do I become a music fan?
To be a music fan, immerse yourself in diverse genres, live shows, and audio gear, and connect with communities on or offline. If you’re trying to bond with the music lover in your life, just let them play their favourite albums for you and listen as they enthuse about their setup.
Final thoughts
Choosing the best gift for a music lover doesn’t have to be a guessing game.
If they love listening on the go, a portable DAC or compact Bluetooth speaker will enhance their listening experience. For vinyl enthusiasts, pick something to keep their collection in shape – our best gifts for vinyl lovers guide has more ideas. Or maybe our guide to the top streaming services might inspire a subscription gift.
We’ve also covered 11 turntables under £500 for vinyl newcomers and seasoned collectors.
Regardless of their level of experience, there should be a gift here that feels just right. Happy gifting!
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